Shared Memories

"James went to Ojai Valley School, which is about 45 minutes away on a good traffic day, and played baseball for CVLL. So, on game days it was a major task just to get to the games ~before they started, forget getting there an hour early when the coaches wanted him there. School got out at 3:30pm, but if he was able to sweet talk his Physical Education teacher, which was his last class of the day, he could leave 10 minutes early and RUN to the car with Jordan in tow. So, you can imagine that car ride over to the field...James literally stripping down in the back of the car-changing into his baseball clothes, the entire time coaching my driving, 'come on mom, you can do it!' On one particular day, as we were screeching into the parking lot at Dover he realized he didn't have his cleats. I was naturally instructed to make a quick trip home to get them...while Michael yelled down to him as James was running up the ramp, 'James, your UP!' James made his way onto the field and Michael smacked the batting helmet on top of his head and James entered the batters box "without" his cleats and proceeded to hit a homerun! James definitely knew how to make an entrance! Turned out the trip home for the cleats was in vain, they were in his bag the whole time!"
 Mom

One of my favorite memories with James was when we played in all stars last year and he hit the three home runs, after playing in some games we went back to my house and stayed up late and had sleepovers which were loads of fun.
Dylan Francis


James, James, James. James was just James. There’s no better way to describe him. James always did what James wanted to do – when he wanted to do it. There is no one else in the WHOLE world like James.
Tyler Chaney


James and I had many great memories. We would hang out a lot and do many things together. Out of all the memories two of them come to mind. One of these great memories took place in Palm Springs with the rest of our team. It was the consolation game with the other team, Hart, and we were all just having fun. We were winning and James thought he could jump from the edge of the dug-out to the top of it and would hang on it. He jumped, slipped and fell on his butt. Every single person on our team just started laughing.
Spencer Korey


Our fondest memory of James is - every year we would go to Six Flags for James' birthday. We would wake up extra early to leave so we could have a full day of rides and excitement. On the ride there, we would all sing Good Charlotte, and James would sing is rendition of Happy Birthday to his self and we would then all laugh our socks off. When we would finally arrive there, Andy would let us go off on our own the whole day while he would sit on a bench and listen to baseball on the radio. We would always have to check in with him so we knew how that game was going. The day was full rides, fooling around and games. We spent a lot of money and never got any prize back from the games, except the time James did a shoot-out for a gigantic basketball and won it. The downside to winning was we had to carry it around the park all day long. The last time we went, James said, "We will come here very year until the day we die.”
Sarah and Michael Shaw


I'll never forget playing baseball with you on the Tigers. You'd make me laugh. I will miss you on the field.
Sincerely, Daniel Gober


I will always remember James for his personality and passion for the game of baseball. He was a loyal friend nd an amazing teammate. I will never forget the many games I played with him. He was the heart and soul of every team he played on.
Danny McLaughlin


During the season James Street only bat against me once ~ and MAN WAS IT AN AT BAT. I was up there giggling like I always do when I pitch to a friend. But I had gotten the count to 2 & 2 and just laughed. I put the ball out there for hit to hit, but what happened wasn’t a hit. I just watched the ball SOAR over my head and the OVER the outfield fence. I will NEVER forget it!
Zack DeBruno


I will always remember James for his attitude towards the game of baseball. He was always focused and ready to go. He always playing his hardest to win, he hated to lose. I will also never forget his passion for his favorite team, the Yankees.
Tommy Lopez


What I appreciated most about James was his respect for teammates and coaches. James was possibly the best player in his age group in the county; but while blessed with tremendous talent, the never made others feel inferior. He was always positive and supportive of his teammates and when others would tend towards trash-talking, James took a more positive approach
Cody Anderson


I’ll always remember that James had 4 home runs in the semi-final game of the 12 year old all star game. Last summer James went to the beach with us and he wore this big rock-star type glasses. He was so funny.
Jeffrey Pemberton


I truly did not know much of James Street at the time, but I did know that he led the league in homeruns for majors. When I was pitching against him in Juniors I had to put in a little extra in every pitch. I was doing well pitching that day then James came up, he hit a bomb off me, but it went foul. That was close. When James came over that 4th of July, I had never really gotten to talk with him before that. I remember playing him in basketball in the pool. He dominated, even me, and I was much taller than he. Even though James was competitive, he still was nice to everyone. It seemed like he could make a friend out of anyone. Before the party, I had practice with him, and I learned how great he was at hitting, and he was a surprisingly a great fielder. I will miss him a lot and I hope that he will live a happy eternity with our Lord
Peter McAfee


James Street was a lot of things. He was extremely talented both in school and sports. But most of all James was a great person and friend. The thing I will most remember about James is that he was my friend and I will miss him greatly.
Christian Becker


A good memory I have of James, came from a tournament in Palm Springs. James was in all of his catcher’s gear and he jumped and grabbed on to the top of the dugout and his fingers slipped and he fell on his butt and got up and started laughing. He knew he could laugh at himself. It was hilarious!
Lucas Steagall


James was a great person. He was many things to me including friend, an athletic competitor, and he was great fun to be around. I was first blessed with the opportunity to meet James when we were about 10 years old. When we were 11 and he was 10 we played together and he was an amazing athlete. Though he was a year younger he could always keep up with the older kids and he always gave his all on the baseball field. With his departure from this world I have lost a great friend and I am deeply saddened.
Ryan Becker


Even though our paths never crossed, I have heard from many of my friends of your great baseball accomplishments and what a great person you were! We will miss you.
From, Evan Ocello


I remember when James, Michael, Dylan and myself were playing the video game MLB slugfest homerun derby at my house last summer. It was Dylan's turn to hit and of course, Dylan was into the game intensely. James was in Dylan's face, saying, "YOU CAN DO IT, put your heart, your soul, your eyes, your ears and your nose into it." in a really funny accent over and over again. Michael, Sarah, Kelsey and I were cracking up and Dylan was trying to keep a straight face. All of the sudden, Dylan paused the game because he had barely hit any homeruns. James and Dylan started wrestling because Dylan had earlier told James he could beat him by so much in this game. James' sense of humor will always be with us.
Eric Greene


My memories are many. The trips to the beach, the times Dylan and James would just sit in the Jacuzzi at our house and talk and watch TV for hours. The neatest thing was when I was coaching third base in a Little League All-star game last year against Moorpark and James hit three home runs to win the game for us. James will always be in my thoughts and prayers.
Sincerely, Jeff Francis


James always had a smile on his face. He was funny. He hit three homeruns in one game last year. I’ll always remember James as being nice.
Connor Chaney


James always inspired others to be their best! To watch James was to watch someone who had a zest for life and lived every moment to the fullest. I will ALWAYS remember him with a smile on his face. I feel honored to have known him and happy that he and Tyler were good friends. He touched our lives.
Terri Chaney


When we think of James a few things come to mind, first and foremost his absolute zest for living life. What a pleasure it was to coach him and more importantly have him as a teammate. To see him play the game of baseball with 110 % effort every game, every inning, every play was a complete joy. His exuberance for life was something that came so easily to him - a trait to be admired. James truly seemed a free spirit one that could never be contained. We will always remember James with great fondness and will never forget his beautiful smile. We will miss you James and will hold you in our hearts forever ~~
Love, Howard, Mickey, Mitchell and Spencer Korey


The Steagalls’ would like to share our boating story. James slept over and we went fishing. I asked him if he gets seasick and he said, “No.” I said, “Are you sure you don’t want to take a dramamine?” and he said, “No, I don’t get seasick". It was an extremely hot day and James got REALLY seasick. When we said, “Lets go back.” He said, “No, I will be fine.” 1 hour later he was turning green –when we came in off the water he seemed fine. He had baseball practice right after and we heard he was ‘to sick’ to go. We always joked him about it.
All our Love, The Steagalls’


James was such an amazing kid. As a family we have so many memories, but as a Mom I have to share a couple of Mom things. Through the years I have taken many, many kids through the drive through for lunch. James, as well as many of the kids would try to yell out special orders for their meals. Every time this would happen, I would remind them of that “Mrs. Shaw doesn’t do special orders.” So one afternoon I was joining the Chaney’s at the beach, with my kids and James to fly kites and play. I asked the kids “what kind of sandwich would you like?” I made their lunch and off we went. At the beach we handed out the food and as Terri and I were sitting chatting we noticed James taking apart his sandwich and using the plastic bag to wipe off Mustard. I said, “James, what are you doing to that sandwich?” He looked back at me over his shoulder and said “ I don’t like mustard, and I know that Mrs. Shaw doesn’t do special orders, so I am fixing it myself.” Terri and I laughed, and I told James that the rule doesn’t apply when I am making the food!! What a funny kid.
Patty Shaw


I will always remember that my ‘nickname’ was given to me by James
"Baby Steagall" I’m still known as that.
Jacob Steagall


I will miss you so much. I’m going to miss those afternoon football games with Peter in the cul-de-sac and I’ll always remember the fun we had at Peter’s family parties. It won’t be the same without you on the baseball field.
Love, Matt Gelinas


James Street was such a kind, loving kid that looked out for others even people that he didn’t even know. James was a leader in everything including baseball and always found a way to bring someone up or even his team up. Street one game in All-Stars hit 3 homeruns back to back to back before getting walked to bring his team up from the ground. Street worked and earned to get better at things, but James had talent and was built to be a leader and kind to others. James was a special soul in this world and knowing James he would have wanted us to remember him and used himself as an example for other people’s safety as well. James you’re an awesome baseball player, but even a better kid.
With Much Love, Jack Vonarb


As a fellow Yankees fan, we knew James was a good guy from the start. What a great ball player. Everyone wanted to play like James. Remember, July 15th 2006? It was the 12-Yr old All-Stars and we were scheduled to play Moorpark Little League…a major rival team. James hit 2 singles and 3 homeruns that game alone…one of which was a grand slam. The look on his face and all the other teammates as James stomped on home plate each and every time was amazing. We won that game 15 to 10 that hot summer day. It was a wonderful experience for all of us to see.
God Bless, The Adreon Family Gary-Andy, An, Mathew “Shorty” and Zachary


Right after outdoor school last year James came to play baseball against us and while he was pitching on the mound he kept scratching and fidgeting. Clearly he was uncomfortable –he had come in contact with poison ivy but still came to play the game. Of course the boys in the dugout did everything they could to keep reminding him how much it was bothering him… hoping it would throw off his game. So, while James was trying to use ‘mind over matter’ and keep from scratching, the boys from the dugout began chanting, “ITCHY, SCRATCHY, ITCHY, SCRATCHY… I SAY ITCHY, YOU SAY SCRATCHY – ITCHY, SCRATCHY” and of course – James just smiled.
CVLL Angels 2006


I was very fortunate to experience a United States championship with the Conejo Valley Little League in 2004 through my son Derrick. It was the thrill of a lifetime. The group of young boys and their families were very special. The coaches were the very best. This year I was very fortunate to have my other son Dylan put on the 13 and 14 year old team by Howard Korey and Charlie Shaw who were the coaches. On Wednesday the fourth of July my son lost his best friend through a tragic accident. Those boys had to play a game the next night. All the boys were at the team party when James Street lost his life. James was a great baseball player and a straight “A” student. Everything James did, he did with one hundred percent effort. He was full steam ahead at all times. What I experienced on Thursday was the greatest baseball game by a group of young boys that you can ever imagine. The team was down 7 to 1 going in to the six inning. They scored 4 runs to make the score 7 to 5. In the bottom of the seventh they scored 3 runs to win the game and advance to the championship game. James was definitely looking down on them. The emotion after the game was something that was truly unbelievable! For the 13 team members, the 3 coaches, the family members and the fans - it was something they will remember the rest of their lives. Before the game the whole team decided to dedicate the game to James. The parents were so proud of the team. The void that James will leave in some of these young boys will NEVER be replaced. We must always remember it is not all about who wins or who loses. Little league baseball is all about lifelong friendships that they acquire ~ memories that will last a lifetime. With the proper forum it teaches them about the real ups and downs of life. James Street will ALWAYS be in our thoughts and prayers he left us way to early.
Mr. and Mrs. Street we will never forget your son.
He was a very special young man.
Sincerely, Jeff Francis


One day last summer during (2006) All Stars, James, Michael, Dylan, Eric G., Sarah and Kelsey were at our house swimming, etc. Afterwards I was taking James, Michael and Sarah back to the Shaw's house. We got in the Expedition and there is a loud clicking sound coming from the back rear of the car (rear air conditioner problem). Well, this sound of course would annoy anyone. Not James though. He immediately began tapping to the beat of this click on the window and seat, using them as a drum set, then opened the window and started singing. I believe Michael and Sarah joined the band and we all had quite a laugh. James made the best out of every situation. We will never forget what James has taught us. He will be in our hearts forever.
Leigh Greene


Everyone always wanted to be around him. He treated people with respect. If James ever walked at the plate, he would look at the pitcher and smile. Then his next at bat he would hit a homerun and have the same BIG SMILE. It didn’t matter whether he was hitting or walking ~ he was always smiling.
Mike Sheehan


What I remember most about James is his smile. I will NEVER forget that smile!
Abuelita –


I remember James' smiling face one time, when a joke was cracked over the baseball teams. It was a nice, BIG smile. And he always had a smile on his face.
Adam Buchsbaum


I will miss your energetic personality and the way you strived to be the best at everything you did. You were such a nice person to be around. I remember going to the beach with you and Peter in the summer and playing wiffle ball in my driveway. I remember playing Marco-Polo in Peter’s pool with you and trying to not get caught cheating as we ran outside off the pool to get away from the person who was it. I used to think that you were full of it when you’d tell me stories from games you had played on the Future Stars team. Then I saw you play in Conejo Valley games watching you hit homeruns out at Dover Hendrix while completely dominating the league and during the District All-Star games last year. I’m sorry for doubting you and I hope that you’re in a better place than here right now because life is so sad without you.
Your Friend, Tommy Gelinas


This was the first year I was on a team with James and it was fun being a Yankee with him, whether we were winning or losing he made it fun and was always positive and like a real leader. He was a great friend to me on our team this year.
Dustin Kowell

I will always remember James for his magnificent style and grace on the baseball field. His boyhood charm was irresistible
Keith McLaughlin


I will always remember James in the dugout. It made me laugh to "overhear" his stories to the boys about his latest escapade or his girlfriends. After the game on the way home, I would always ask Danny what new things James was talking about that day. Danny would grin, but never divulge.
Liz McLaughlin


Over the years, several times Brett has had the privilege to play exciting baseball games with James. Particularly on the large field as the boys grow up, I can't always recognize the players from the stands. Following the incredibly outstanding plays, we always try to figure out which player is the hero. After he slides into base or finishes the inning, one talented boy will pull off his helmet revealing a flash of sunshine, and as he shakes his golden head we know it is James. And we know we are witnessing greatness.
We will always cherish timeless memories of the seasons where boys reveled in their chosen sport.
Love and peace, Cherie, Bob, Brett and Kristie Bailey


While our family only had the limited pleasure of knowing James, he was the type of boy that EVERYONE liked & loved immediately; as his zest for life was nothing less than contagious and inspirational. James was a boy that left a positive impact on every person he met and was the type of boy that brought out the best in everyone and exemplified the highest level of integrity, sportsmanship and character. He was a true leader and will be greatly missed. We are ALL very fortunate to have even known James and he will NOT be forgotten.
Vonarb Family


Although we only knew James a short two years, that which is James reflects in our minds often now. He smiles that smile, laughs and then infects those around him into laughter effortlessly. His fluid grace in motion on the baseball field and natural ability is also a reflection, but most paramount is his wonderful ability to make friends instantly as he did with Ben, even though they were in competition on opposing teams, gives light to his character, enjoying competition but never letting the outcome, win or lose, change his desire to be personable and respectful
The Rogers Family



During the 2006 All-Star season I attended a practice at Dover. After Coach Shaw's speech to the boys he began sending players out to their positions. James was told to go to shortstop. I was standing in shallow left center when James ran out to his spot. On a beautiful summer evening, James seemed to be soaking it all in. As he stood there at short waiting for the other players to take the field, he held out his arms and in a quiet and confident voice he looked around and said, "This is my domain!". It was with that quiet confidence that James carried himself and showed what a great player he was.
Scott Pemberton


My memory of James was when he hit the Homerun off my son this year in a Juniors Division game "RATS" ~ I’ll also remember how much fun he had practicing with the boys on July 4th at Waverly. What I will remember the most, is his Passion. He played with passion all the time. You could see it in his expressions every time he played Baseball. That to me is what measures a person; his PASSION ~and James had it, boy did he have it. RIP James, you will always be remembered.
Dan DeBruno


We want to share a moment between James, Ben and myself. We three were at the ball field at Dover waiting for the game ahead to finish. We were conversing and talking about nothing in particular when James said to me, "Coach Rogers, you have a large head." He said this with mischief in his eyes as he often had- yet it was said with that of a boys’ observation not in anyway insulting. I replied, "It comes from my Viking ancestry." He nodded as he looked again around my face once more perhaps thinking how I might look in a horned helmet. Ben was chortling next to me, finding the size of my head comment funny in his own way, and without a beat James turned his look on Ben but now with quick whit and eyebrows raised said, "You know what that means Ben, you're going to have a big one too!" A millisecond beat of silence gave way to a roar of laughter by all three of us. Further one-liners on the topic were expressed by both of the boys as I looked on- amused. I don't remember what disrupted our threesome of laughs, perhaps it was the end of the game before ours, I do however remember as we parted, soon to face off in the next game, James saying "good luck today" and saying so honestly. Even in these small reflections I have of James, they make me smile. This was his gift to me. This is why I use the present tense James "is" with me now. He is with all who knew him. In this time of loss know that James is forever enshrined in our memories.
Steven and Ben Rogers


During last summer James stayed with our family. Every time we would go in the car James would ask Mom to play a song on the CD player. Blow Gabriel Blow was the song he would sing. He would shout the song and do funny movements with his arms. He would roll down all the windows and pretend that he was blowing a horn. He would make my mom play that song over and over. I miss James, and I miss him singing that song. I think of him when I hear that song and sometimes I cry, and sometimes I smile.
Katie Shaw


I will always remember that James was always smiling. He hit three homeruns in one game… that was AWESOME! I will never forget him. He was a funny kid.
He was kind. He loved baseball. He and Tyler were nice to each other.
Danika Chaney


James was a very popular player - popular with his teammates - someone to be respected and feared as a competitor. It was very apparent to me that he loved baseball.
Gary King

My fondest memories of that incredible boy…
James came to the game and had arrived late and as he was walking by, the first thing he said to me was “I heard Adam parked one last game.” That was James, he never talked about himself and he WAS the best player on the team.
Steve Buchsbaum


My most precious memory of James is his internal flame – James had a way of bringing life and energy to all those around him. He had a bright light and my hope is we will cherish it forever.
Kevin, Lori, Chad and Christian Bowe


Our son, Andrew, had the privilege of being one of James’ teammates on the 2006 Marlins. Although we only knew James briefly, it was obvious that he was a very special person. We all enjoyed watching this talented young man hit seemingly effortless homeruns, make amazing catches and incredible throws. When we remember James, we can’t help but smile. James always had to rush to those 4:00 weekday games from his school in Ojai. The sight of him running up the ramp to the field shoeless, no doubt wearing holes in his socks, with a big smile on his face as he quipped “I hope my cleats are in my bag” was priceless. Andrew remembered that one of the most fun games of the season followed the infamous poison oak incident. Cheers of “itchy, scratchy” pealed from the opposing dugout and threatened to keep James laughing so hard that he would be unable to pitch. But what impressed us most about James had little to do with baseball. At the end of the season, Andrew, who had been struggling at the plate for the first half of the year, hit his first home run ever. Who was the first one out of the dugout? James. Whooping and hollering, running and jumping, he nearly came right out of those hastily tied cleats. He seemed to be more excited about that homerun than Andrew. James was so clearly delighted in the accomplishments of others. Yes, he was an amazing baseball player. But he was also an encouraging friend. Andrew greatly admired him. In his short 13 years on this earth, James had a profound impact on the lives of people around him. We will always remember him fondly.
Our heartfelt prayers are with you.
The Van Voy Family


We remember a game last season when James was on the Marlins and he was on the White Sox. James hit two home runs that he describes as "Missiles." One to dead center field and one to left field. They were long line drives. His next time up Big Tom and Steve Rogers decide to intentionally walk him because of the two blasts. Tom remembers hearing Mrs. Street yelling from the stands "step into it and hit it James" Tom was playing third and he could see Charlie Shaw laughing also and telling James to try and hit it. He also pitched a great game that day. What a great passionate player his love for the game really came through and those three home runs in All Stars were unforgettable! Our prayers and thoughts are with his family we will never forget James.
Love, The McNutts

We only knew James from afar...as spectators. Unfortunately, JT was never on the same team and we didn't get know the family, other than by sight. I do know is that James is known to be a fabulous ball player and a bright, wonderful boy....with very nice parents. My heart and prayers are with them daily.
The Hain Family


Another memory I have is, I was talking with James and joking with him that I would pay him a hundred dollars for a home run - he just flashed that movie star smile. To me he looked like a movie star. No doubt James was born with a natural star appeal.
Steve Buchsbaum


Laundry - I hate laundry. When James was staying with us I of course had a new stack of clothes everyday. James had a favorite shirt. A yellow-green Abercrombie t-shirt. It was his favorite. I think he would have worn it everyday if he could have. He wore it every time the kids went to the mall, to a movie, or out of the house. “Patty, did you wash my shirt today?” The funniest picture I have in my mind of James is… Picking Sarah, Michael, and James up from the mall after shopping and here comes James, wearing his favorite shirt, a fedora, and silver aviator glasses looking like a gangster, he looks at my astonished face and says “oh yeah, I’m bad!”
What a comic. Always putting on a show and smiling.
I really loved that boy.
Patty Shaw


James had a way about him when he was on the baseball field. We all looked up to him and admired his naturally given talent. He was quite the team leader and motivator. Win or lose, the boys from T.O. Tigers and CVLL always had fun. We were all like brothers. And James was a huge part of that positive energy…always full of life. He will be missed dearly by all of his fellow teammates and friends. Missed but not forgotten. For every time we step on the field, James will again be our motivator to focus on the game at hand and kick some butt!
God Bless, The Adreon Family Gary-Andy, An, Mathew “Shorty” and Zachary


I assure you that I will never forget James. Even though I did not know him well, I go to sleep and wake up thinking about him. Here is something a very good friend sent to me and I want to pass it on to you…
The Irish have a gift that they give to those that have been left behind when someone they love dies....The most frustrating part of loosing someone is not knowing "what to do"..."what is my part"...."what is my responsibility"...
There are three deaths a person can experience...
The first is between God and His child....
we can do nothing about this...we cannot stop it or change it...
it is between God and His child and only belongs to God and His child

The second is the memorial service...
the gathering of those who have been touched and saddened by the loss...
the hugs, the tears, the broken hearts....
together as a unit in an attempt to mend, heal, understand

The third death is the most important and one that no person should ever experience...

THAT IS THE DEATH OF BEING FORGOTTEN...
and this is our responsibility, our job...the gift from the Irish....to remember....
for in remembering we heal, we sooth, we cry, we laugh, we take that "gift",
the "responsibility" of keeping the spirit of our loved one alive, in our daily lives, in our words and always, always in our hearts know that your loved one will always be remembered...talk about him, laugh about him, cry about him...but know in your hearts that we all will also remember..those who have spoken about him....cried about him...he is alive in your eyes, in the eyes of his brothers and sisters..we see him there,,,,feel him...miss him....and we will keep him forever alive in this world by remembering we will remember his worth, his joy,his talents, his smile, his sweetness....this is our job...our responsibility....our gift.....
May this "gift" give you a sense of peace, calmness and joy
knowing we will always remember.....he will never, ever be forgotten....
Amen Liz McLaughlin


Another favorite memory was when we went to Danny McLaughlin's beach
house and we were playing football in the sand, after everyone buried me in
the sand from neck to toe and James farted on my head when I couldn't move.
Dylan Francis


I can remember meeting James when we were in the Conejo Valley American Division. James was on the Yankees and I was on the Angles. Although I am one year older, I can say that James was always one of the best players both on and off the field. He always gave 150% when he was playing and many times I saw him get injured while doing his best. I never saw James get mad at an opposing player, he held his composer very well. James was not only a GREAT player, he was a GREAT inspiration too. He kept the rhythm flowing in the dugout. If someone was down on themselves, James would encourage them. People had a lot to learn from James. I cared about James and am deeply, deeply, saddened by his departure from this Earth. I will ALWAYS remember James for the great person he was.
Christian Becker


I will always remember when we went to Santa Barbara and rode bikes around the whole beach together and had lots of fun. We also had tons of fun with all the sleepovers and late night swimming we had together.
Dylan Francis


Another memory I have with James is when we used to air soft in our back yard and he'd always run in the middle of the yard and get shot, but he wouldn't care.
Michael Shaw


One thing I especially remember is a conversation with James last year. He said, “The Yankees are gonna’ win the World Series this year.” And I was like, “NO way ~ $20 bucks says they don’t.” And guess what, they didn’t. BUT there was another part to this bet… I said, “the Dodgers were going to make it to the NLCS.” (which they didn’t) so I didn’t owe him and he didn’t owe me. That was the thing about James, he always thought the Yankees would make it to the World Series.
Tyler Chaney


Last summer we went to Palm Springs for a baseball tournament with the Tigers –we stayed up late and caused some trouble for other guests.
Dylan Francis


There are so many ways I could start this tribute to James David Street. It is truly a compliment that so many good things can be said and written about someone at such a young age. I choose to call my letter to you a tribute because James, Anne, Andy, and Jordan deserve nothing less. Their boy with the golden locks had so many great qualities it is difficult to know where to begin. He was respectful of others, helpful, and kind. He worked hard, no matter what the task, and always had a plan. This boy was raised the right way.
I had the pleasure of meeting James Street in the fall of 2003. He was eight years old at the time he came to see us at Future Stars of America Baseball and Softball Academy to train. I was lucky enough to be working that day and take James on as one of my clients. It was an acquaintance that went from teacher & student, coach & player and soon blossomed into a great friendship. We met weekly, usually for an hour at a time. I remember after three or four weeks of working together I asked this nine year-old boy what he hoped to accomplish from all his baseball training? He quickly replied, "Play shortstop for the New York Yankees". I chuckled and replied "Oh really, does Derek Jeter know about this"? I had never seen a boy in my years of training players that could learn and perform so fast the skills he was being taught. I remember thinking to myself one day, with his determination and work ethic, he just might put those pinstripes on someday and take the field in the Bronx. A year later our relationship went from teacher & student to coach & player. With the help of James' parents and other families we were able to start Camarillo Future Stars Baseball Travel Club. James was the heart and soul of this club, and everyone involved with the team, from players, coaches and parents cannot deny this. While I would be able to write on and on of James' accomplishments on the field, and there were many, what stood out most to me was the leadership qualities he possessed. He never had to be told to be the leader. He led by example. I have never seen a nine year-old boy looked up to by his peers mainly because he played the game the right way. He led by example and made everyone else around him better. I realize now how fortunate I was to have had the privilege of coaching someone with James ability and personality for those two years. Young players like him don't come around that often. James and I spent five years together and he became a staple of Future Stars of America. Everyone would smile when James would come in on those Wednesday afternoons at 4:30. He had that kind of presence. Not a 4:30 on Wednesday will go by without my thoughts going to James and how much I will miss working with my student, my player, MY FRIEND. Future Stars lost one of its family members on July fourth 2007. He will forever be remembered. Thank You Anne & Andy Street for letting me be a part of his life.
Sincerely, Al Drumheller & Future Stars of America


Another memory I have of James was when, James, Michael, Dylan and I all went to a movie. After we were all going back to James’ house and the key phrase of the day was “HEY, I’m gonna’ kick you in the nutts!!!!” We were in the car and we were yelling that at anyone who would be walking outside. At one moment there was an elderly lady outside and James yelled it at her and we ducked down so she couldn’t see us. She reluctantly thought it was Mrs. Street. All of us were laughing.
Spencer Korey


James loved baseball. I think his whole life revolved around it. I bet he had a hat for every single Major League baseball team. He played with passion. He was gonna’ win every time he played. I remember the All-Stars last year when James hit 3 home-runs in a game ~ and with the bases loaded - Moorpark decided to intentionally walk him. He had so much power at the plate.
Tyler Chaney



I will also remember that he hit 3 homer’s in an All-Star game last year, it was incredible!
Christian Becker


We also went to the movies a lot and since some of the best movies are rated R we would get tickets for one movie and then when another movie that we really wanted to see started we would change theaters and watch a different movie. Those are some of the many wonderful memories that James and I had together. Having him gone is really painful and I will miss him a lot. During the night I will miss having him over at my house and I will wonder what he is doing.
Love Dylan Francis


When I think of James really great memories come to mind. He was very energetic, loving, and competitive. Which made him fun to be around. On our club team his attitude and level of athleticism held the team together. If someone was down on themselves he would encourage them ~that they were going to do better the next time. He and I shared common interests like our love for the Yankees and Derek Jeter. James was loved by many and he will never be forgotten. He will always be in our hearts. And for those who spent time with him and shared fond memories with him we will all mourn his death. What I will remember about James is that he was such a great friend and it hurts me to think that he is no more and he is gone. I will never forget him and it’s sad because I will never get to see him or his great smile again. We had so much to learn from him he gave us joy and laughter and I give my regards to his family
Rest in Peace James.
Ryan Becker


I remember on the morning of July 4th, James even practiced with us. He lived and breathed the game. He was in going to play with us in the next tournament. We will as Conejo Valley All-Stars play every game in his memory. We came back in the game against Port Hueneme from a 7-1 deficit ~ and we did it for him. He gave us the extra strength we needed. I will ALWAYS remember James Street.
Tyler Chaney


The memories I have of James will stay with me for my life to come. James touched many, MANY lives within his short life ~ mine, being one. James was a great person and every person he talked to will never forget him. James was a one of a kind person and will never be forgotten.
Spencer Korey


The wiggle- During last years Allstars, I noticed that when ever James would get a hit, He would do this little wiggle right before the pitch. He would hold the bat over his head, and do this little shake from his hips, like he was adjusting his clothes. By the end of all stars, the crowd would shout “where’s the wiggle?!”
Patty Shaw


July 4th 2007 we were on our way to an All-Star Team Barbeque looking forward to seeing friends, having fun, yummy food and fireworks! When I made my way to the backyard, I was pleasantly surprised to see James. Even though he wasn’t on the “roster” he was in the pool playing with the boys. I waved to him and asked, “Hey James, what are you doing here?” He grinned and through his arms in the air and replied, “I’m with MY BOYS!” That statement is so true! James, I know you will always watch over those boys. They will ALWAYS be YOUR boys, playing YOUR game, only now they play for YOU!
Terri Chaney


Last summer when James stayed with our family during All-Stars he got this terrible heat rash from wearing the uniform. His armpits and waist, anywhere the catchers gear was strapped on he was covered. I said James “you need to take a good shower and we need to get some cream for you!” Of course he replied, “I’m fine really!” I spoke with Anne in England, just to make sure he had no allergies. Later that day I got some cream and spread it all over him. The poor kid had to stand around with his arms out, couldn’t sit, waiting for the stuff to soak in. He kept saying, “Thanks Patty, this is much better.”
Patty Shaw


After the All Star game last year when we beat the Moorpark team James, Michael and I went up to Sports Chalet in Oxnard to pick up a new baseball bat. After we were done, the boys said that they were hungry. James had spied a Red Lobster just down the road.......I don't like the Red Lobster, but James said it was one of his favorite restaurants. After hitting three home runs in one game I figured that he deserved a meal at the eating establishment of his choice. When we got the menus I understood why he like it there. He sat the menu down, unopened and ordered the Crab Feast. It was $30.00 and about four pounds of crab. He ate every bite, smiling that James grin with every mouthful. He even ate some of Michaels's food just because he could. I will never forget his three homerun game. The Moorpark coaches will not forget it either. They've mentioned it many times. He scared them from then on. James came back from his outdoor camp to play a baseball game with us on the Marlins. While hiking he had gotten poison oak...everywhere, head to toe. It was hot that day during the game and he was pretty uncomfortable. Of course, James wouldn't let a little thing like poison oak slow HIM down. Michael started the game and James came in to finish it. We were playing the Angels (Mike Sheehan's team) and they knew about the poison oak. As James was pitching they started to chant "You say itchy, I say scratchy", "itchy scratchy, itchy scratchy". This went on for awhile. Everybody thought it was very amusing. James was very good at imitating characters from South Park. He cracked everybody up. Funny thing is, his parents never let him watch it. Computers are good for watching forbidden TV shows. James is already missed. We will always miss him. Every time we pick up a baseball or hear about the game or the Yankees, whenever we see a smiling blonde haired young boy we will remember James. He was a very bright shooting star that touched all of us very deeply. God bless and God speed you James forever and ever.
Charlie Shaw


James was an enemy and an alli. He competed with me for as long as I knew him, which regrettably was only for a couple of years. He had an attitude I admired. He was a true friend of mine. I knew him long enough to love him. He was a friend that I will always remember. I’ll miss you James.
Daniel Delaney


James you were so tight dude. I remember when you and I would mess around with Dylan and dude I will always miss you.
Andrew Corbett


I remember a special time I spent with James last year we were in Palm Springs playing as the TO Tigers and me and him ate hot wings in his hotel room. I will always remember that day.
Ricky Sheehan


When you are with the boys as much as we dad “coaches” are – you get to know the boys really well. If they ever got too cocky, I felt it my responsibility to bring them back down to earth. So as you can imagine James and I had this conversation often. I would always tell James, “NO matter how old you get… you’ll never be able to take me.” First I’d get the famous James grin (he was probably thinking
”yeah right, old man”), then, he’d stick out his chest and motion with his hands “bring it on”. I’d take a step toward him and he would take off running, like a little girl… laughing the whole way. This was a common occurrence between James and me – always the same, every time.
Todd Chaney